Divorce can be hard on anyone, and it’s easy to let emotions get the better of you during this trying time. However, you will undergo a legal process where your divorce lawyer and a judge are involved. As a result, it’s vital that you keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind, including keeping your cool throughout the process. 

Do:

Look into the full financial picture of the marriage.

Instead of focusing solely on current assets and properties, take a look at the complete financial picture of your marriage. Divorce significantly affects a couple’s finances, so consider your future financial state, as well. If your spouse has been responsible for handling money matters, consult your divorce lawyer about making financial plans and decisions. They will help assess a settlement agreement to decide if it’ll work in the long term. 

Fully disclose assets and property.

You are legally required to openly reveal all assets, expenses, income, and debt during a divorce. This information will become the court’s basis for the division of assets and debt between you and your spouse. If you are found guilty of omitting financial information, the judge can impose penalties. This could involve paying the other party’s attorney fees, receiving a smaller marital asset share, invalidating a divorce decree, or even being charged with perjury and contempt. If you are unsure of how to properly disclose your assets and properties, ask a divorce lawyer for guidance. 

Don’t:

Don't lose your cool.

Getting into a fight or displaying nasty behavior during the divorce process can negatively impact your divorce decree and settlement. Justifying bad behavior to a judge can be difficult. If you feel that you can’t refrain from lashing out, you can request to cease contact until you’ve cooled down.

Get rid of assets that you own jointly with your spouse.

While you might be tempted to hide your assets with relatives or friends to avoid having to split them with your spouse, avoid doing this. The court will be highly suspicious of someone whose income has suddenly decreased or who has recently transferred a deed to a friend or relative. If you get caught getting rid of your assets, there could be monetary penalties or a larger settlement to the other party.
 

When you need a reliable divorce lawyer, contact The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot in Litchfield County, CT. Attorney Jeannine offers guidance and skillful representation for divorce, alimony, child custody, and other family law cases. Call her at (860) 482-9004 or visit her website to schedule a consultation.